The NSW Government today released regional transport plans for the Western, Central West, Murray and Murrumbidgee, New England and North West, and Central Coast regions of NSW.

Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Roads and Ports Duncan Gay said the plans provided a strategic direction for the delivery of transport infrastructure and services in the state’s regions over the next 20 years.

“The plans will ensure our transport, roads and freight networks meet the needs of regional communities by addressing expected population changes, and responding to the transport priorities highlighted by local communities,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Each region faces different challenges - whether they be population increases or an ageing population – and by doing this detailed work we’ve been able to identify specific strategic priorities for each region that will help shape future decision-making and investment.

“The plans outline our continued commitment to investment in roads and public transport services and infrastructure, walking and cycling, community transport services, road safety and economic development.”

Mr Gay said the actions set out in the regional transport plans reflected the extensive feedback received during community consultation, which included public forums in each region and meetings with local councils and key stakeholders.

“Regional transport plans are as much about planning and investment for the long term as they are about short term action - we’re already getting on with the job of delivering crucial services and infrastructure for these communities,” Mr Gay said.

“The time and effort we have put into this work shows the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government is deeply committed to working with regional communities to deliver much-needed transport improvements, and the approach is a far cry from the former Labor Government which neglected these areas for so long.”

Work will continue to prioritise actions for the future in conjunction with local councils, so they can be delivered as funding becomes available. The final plans are available at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/media-centre/publications-reports